It has been 10 years since the Town of Minto’s open air burning bylaw has been updated, and it is time, according to fire Chief Chris Harrow.
“In 1999, smog days were not an issue,” he said. And they were not addressed in the bylaw. They are, in the updated version. However, apart from such updates, the bylaw is not substantially different from the one it replaces, said the fire chief.
The bylaw is being made available on the town’s website (www.town.minto.on.ca) for public comment. Comments are due by Feb. 5. Comments will be looked at and the final draft will be brought before council in March, said Harrow, in anticipation of having it in place by April – just in time for spring burning.
In essence, the bylaw states that all open air burning requires a permit issued by the fire chief. Applications for permits are made through the municipal office. The draft bylaw states that in general, open fires are not permitted on smog days; after sunset; near structures, hedges, roadways or overhead wires; in windy weather; or near anything combustible. Open fires must be under three metres in height and diameter. Small cooking fires are generally permitted without a permit, as long as the fire is under constant watch and control.
More Minto council news inside.